Molly bolts are a popular choice for securing drywall to metal studs. They are easy to install and provide a stronghold; however, if you need to remove them, the process can be complicated; this is why we will teach you how to remove molly bolts from drywall.
This article will show you how to remove molly bolts from drywall quickly and easily. If you like to work around the house, this article will be helpful. Just make sure to read through it entirely before starting.
Tools You Will Need
A handyman is only as good as his tools, which is true when you’re learning how to remove molly bolts from drywall. Here are the tools you will need:
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Flathead screwdriver
- Hammer
- Chisel
- Drill
- Wire brush
Safety Gear
When working with power tools, always make sure to wear safety gear. This includes a dust mask, goggles, and gloves.
Now that you have the necessary tools let’s get started.
How To Remove Molly Bolts From Drywall – Step By Step
With everything ready, it is time to start the process of removing molly bolts. We will walk you through it step by step.
Step 1: Shut Off The Electricity
Before you start working with any power tool, it is essential to ensure that the area is safe. This means shutting off the electricity at the breaker box. Once the power is off, you can remove the cover plate from the outlet using a screwdriver. Next, use a voltage tester to ensure that the outlet is true without power.
Step 2: Drill A Hole In The Center Of The Bolt
Using a drill, make a hole in the center of the bolt. This hole should be slightly smaller than the diameter of the bolt itself. Once you have completed the hole, insert a screwdriver into it and begin to turn the bolt counterclockwise. As you turn the bolt, it will start to loosen. Additionally, the use of a drill will help to remove any rust or corrosion that may have built upon the bolt and help to make it easier to remove.
Step 3: Remove The Screws
The next step in how to remove molly bolts from drywall is to remove the screws from the molly bolts. You will need a screwdriver for this. Be careful not to damage the drywall as you remove the screws. Once the screws are removed, you can pull the molly bolts out of the wall. You may need to use a putty knife to help pry them out. If the molly bolts are old and rusty, they may be difficult to remove. In this case, you may need to use a drill to make a hole in the wall to get a better grip on them and pull them out.
Step 4: Use A Hammer And Chisel To Remove The Molly Bolts
Start by using a hammer and chisel to remove the molly bolts from the drywall. Use a sharp chisel to avoid damaging the drywall surface. For extra protection, you can place a piece of cardboard or other thin material between the chisel and the wall. If the molly bolt is tight, you may need to use a pry bar to help loosen it. Once the molly bolt is loosened, it should come out quickly by hand. Finally, use a utility knife to remove any remaining bits of the molly bolt from the drywall surface.
Step 5: Drill Out The Remaining Part Of The Bolt
Now that the head of the bolt is gone, it’s time to drill out the remaining part of the bolt. Begin by slipping a drill bit into the hole left by the removed head of the bolt. The goal is to drill a hole that is slightly larger in diameter than the bolt shaft. This will allow you to remove the rest of the bolt quickly. Once you have drilled a large enough hole, simply use a screwdriver or other tool to twist and remove the remaining part of the bolt.
Step 6: Clean Up The Hole
After the molly bolt is removed, there will be a hole in the drywall. To fix this, first, remove any loose pieces of drywall from around the hole. Then, cut a piece of drywall to fit the hole and attach it to the studs on either side with drywall screws. Next, apply joint compound to the seams and smooth it out with a putty knife. Once the joint mix is dry, sand it down until it is flush with the surrounding wall.
Step 7: Repaint Or Wallpaper
The seventh and final step in how to remove molly bolts from drywall is to repaint or wallpaper the affected area to cover up any damage done by the molly bolts. You want to make sure you use high-quality paint or wallpaper so that it will last a long time. You don’t want to go through this process again anytime soon! And that’s it! You’ve now successfully removed molly bolts from your drywall.
When Do You Need To Remove Molly Bolts From Drywall?
Molly bolts are often used to hang heavy objects on walls, such as TVs or paintings. However, over time they can become loose and fall off the wall. If this happens, it’s essential to remove them and repair the damage they have caused as soon as possible. Otherwise, the object may fall and cause further damage.
Additionally, if you are remodeling your home or doing a DIY project, you may need to remove molly bolts from drywall. This is especially true if you change the room’s layout or remove a wall. By following the steps listed above, you can easily remove molly bolts and repair the damage they have caused.
Conclusion
Removing molly bolts from drywall is a relatively simple process, but it does require a few tools and some patience. First, use a drill to create a pilot hole in the center of the bolt head. Next, insert a screwdriver into the pilot hole and turn it counterclockwise to loosen the bolt. Once the bolt has been loosened, it can be pulled out. If the bolt is stubborn, you may need to use a pair of pliers to grip the head and twist it out. With a little bit of effort, you should be able to remove any molly bolts from your drywall.